Saint Peter Claver Parish in Macon hosted a “Stateside” World Youth Day Celebration July 29 for youth ages 13-18. Approximately 40 youth attended from four parishes including Saint Peter Claver, Saint Joseph in Macon, Sacred Heart in Warner Robins and Saint Patrick in Kathleen. According to Michelle Craddock, coordinator for the celebration as well as for Saint Peter Claver’s high school youth ministry, the event—-which featured candlelit stations of the cross (photos 8-9), games (photos 1-2), a glow-in-the-dark rosary recitation (photo 7) and Mass (photo 4), among other activities—-were intended to “gently light a fire in these children’s hearts...just so they can have that strength just to endure life because life isn’t easy. None of it’s easy, being a teenager. I hope they can start a relationship with God.” Macon-based Kolbe Center director Ann Beall also spoke about the different social services provided in the area while seminarian Nate Swann talked about the experience of being on pilgrimage (photos 3 and 6). Photos by Jessica L. Marsala.